Disposable portable therapy device

Abstract

Apparatus for a disposable, portable thermal therapy device that is self-contained for shipping as a single unit to a patient. The therapy device has a shipping configuration that presents a single, self-contained durable container. The container includes an insert that defines a compartment between the insert and the container. The compartment storing various electrical components. The insert has a cavity that contains a pump and stores a thermal pad and associated fluid lines. The therapy device has a deployed configuration in which the power connector, the control unit, and the thermal pad are extended from the interior of the container. In one embodiment, the insert is a solid insulating material that has a configuration suitable for nesting the inserts for shipping. In another embodiment, the insert is a planar material folded into a basket shape. Insulation is provided by the gap between the insert and the containing box.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not ApplicableSTATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1. Field of Invention[0004]This invention pertains to a portable thermal therapy system that is disposable. More particularly, this invention pertains to a coolant system for temperature therapy of an animal in which the coolant system is self-contained for shipping and delivery and is adapted for single use.[0005]2. Description of the Related Art[0006]It is advantageous to selectively apply thermal treatment to patients. Hypothermic treatment is useful for emergency treatment of injured persons. A common first aid for sports injuries is to apply ice or cooling to the injured area. Additionally, patients are often prescribed treatment programs involving application of a thermal device to a body portion of the patient periodically over a period extending from days to months. Cooling treatment is also useful for ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012]According to one embodiment of the present invention, a portable thermal therapy device is provided. The therapy device has a shipping configuration in which the therapy device is self-contained in a lightweight, yet durable container that is suitable for shipping, handling, and storing. After being received by an end user, the therapy device has a deployed configuration in which various components are removed and / or extended from inside the container such that the therapy device is able to be used for treatment of a patient. In this way, the patient conveniently receives a single, preassembled therapy device requiring minimal assembly and setup.

Problems solved by technology

While different implementations have been tried, many are limited by lack of practicality, difficulty of use, ineffectiveness, and / or excessive power consumption.

Ice packs, although primitive, provide quick localized cooling.

A disadvantage of ice packs is that it is difficult to control the rate of cooling.

Further, the hardshell ice chest is made of materials that are intended for extended use and it is not practical and economical to dispose of the portable coolant system after a patient completes a course of therapy.

These types of conductive cooling therapy devices are constructed for durability and are not suited for environmentally friendly disposal.

Further, durable devices require components and construction techniques that make the therapy devices expensive, thereby discouraging the disposal of the therapy devices after the course of treatment is completed.

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